According to Goal.com, Southampton have slapped a £25 million price tag on central midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, as they look to put Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal off making a bid.

Spurs and Arsenal have both been long-term admirers of Schneiderlin, but the Saints are loathed to lose a player who is so key to them.

Schneiderlin has been a rock in front of Southampton's back-four this term and his performances are a major reason why the south coast club have the second best defensive record in the whole Premier League.

It means that he is an integral part of Ronald Koeman's side and he would be very tough to replace if he did depart.

Southampton will also be looking to prove that they cannot be bullied in the transfer window by more established top-flight clubs.

John Verrall

John is a sports journalism graduate from Staffordshire University. He is a huge football fan and a minute-by-minute writer for UEFA.com, as well as being a freelance writer for Sports New Media. John has also seen his work been published by the likes of The Guardian, World Soccer and Shoot Magazine over the course of his bourgeoning journalism career so far. He has a particular expertise in all things to do with the Football League – and is a passionate Peterborough United fan.